Dr. Oluga calls for investment in local manufacturing, global collaboration at WHA78 Panel

The Principal Secretary Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga has called for urgent investment in Africa’s domestic manufacturing capacity to strengthen preparedness for future pandemics.

Speaking during a high-level panel discussion hosted by Unitaid on the sidelines of the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, Dr. Oluga reflected on the challenges exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the continent’s overreliance on external support for vaccines and protective equipment.

The session brought together senior health leaders from across the globe to exchange strategies and share lessons learnt from recent health emergencies.

Dr. Oluga further emphasised that in an increasingly interconnected world, working in isolation is no longer a viable option, noting that collaboration, is essential to building resilient health systems.

He also welcomed the newly adopted Pandemic Agreement pending ratification describing it as a transformative tool to enhance global preparedness and reduce inequalities in access to life-saving medical resources.